The rectum and anus let solid waste (stool) leave the body. Anorectal manometry is a test to look at how well the muscles and nerves in these areas are working. It measures pressure in the rectum and anus when you do things during the test like cough, squeeze, and push down.
Why the test is done
The test can help diagnose problems with nerves and the movement of muscles in the anus and rectum. It can find out if these muscles aren't working as they should be. This can cause health conditions, such as sphincter weakness or abnormal rectal sensation. The test may be done if a person has any of these problems:
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Can’t let stool out when needed (constipation).
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Can’t hold stool in when needed (fecal incontinence).
Risks of anorectal manometry
All procedures have risks. The risks of this test include:
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Bleeding from the rectum.
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Hole (perforation) in the rectum.
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Pain while passing stool after the test.
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Allergic reaction to latex in the balloon.
Getting ready for the test
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Don't eat or drink for 2 hours before the test or as directed by your doctor. If you need to take medicine, take it with a small sip of water.
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You will likely need to empty stool from the rectum 2 hours before the test. This is done with an enema. You can buy an enema kit at a drugstore. Check which type of enema your doctor advised you to use. Follow the directions on the package.
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Tell your doctor about all the medicines you take. This includes all prescription and over-the-counter medicines. It also includes vitamins, herbs, and other supplements.
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Tell your doctor if you are sensitive or allergic to latex.
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Follow all other instructions from your doctor.
What happens during the test
How the test is done may vary, but usually during the test:
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You may be given medicine to help you relax.
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You’ll lie on your side on a medical table.
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The doctor will put a thin, flexible tube (catheter) into your anus and rectum. The end of the tube that goes inside the rectum has a small, deflated balloon on the tip. The other end of the catheter is attached to a computer. The tube has pressure sensors on it. The sensors send pressure readings to the computer.
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You will be asked to do several things during the test. You will be asked to relax. You will be asked to push down like you are trying to move your bowels. You will be asked to squeeze your anus like you are holding in gas. You may be asked to cough. The doctor will take measurements during each of these actions.
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The catheter will be removed. A saline-filled balloon may then be inserted. You will be asked to push the balloon and tube out of your rectum like a bowel movement. This may be repeated with different balloon sizes or positions.
After the test
After the test, you can go home. If you had medicine to help you relax, have a family member or friend drive you home. Your doctor will let you know the results of the test. You can resume your diet and normal activities if your doctor says it's safe to do so.
When to contact your doctor
Contact your doctor if you have:
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A fever of
100.4 °F (38 °C) or higher, or as directed by your doctor. -
Pain that gets worse.
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More than a small amount of bleeding from the rectum.
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Signs of an allergic reaction, including:
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Itching.
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Hives.
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Trouble breathing ( call 911).
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Symptoms that don’t get better, or get worse.
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New symptoms.
